Casualties unknown

Loss of Power on Takeoff Leads to Forced Landing and Post-Impact Fire (N397Z)

Theodosia, MO, US

On May 5, 1993, a Beech A33-35 (registration N397Z) operated by Robert D. Borman was involved in an aviation accident near Theodosia, MO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: POOR PREFLIGHT PLANNING/PREPARATION BY THE PILOT. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE TAILWIND, A HEAVY WEIGHT LOAD, AND UNSUITABLE TERRAIN IN WHICH TO LAND THE AIRPLANE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported a loss of power at 200 feet AGL during a takeoff with a tailwind on a downhill runway. The aircraft made a forced landing into trees, came to rest inverted, and a post-impact fire occurred. No mechanical failure was found.

Overview

A pilot initiated a takeoff to the west on a downhill runway. The wind conditions included a tailwind of approximately 9 knots. During the climb, after reaching about 200 feet above ground level, the pilot reported a loss of power and indicated that the aircraft could not maintain altitude.

Forced Landing and Accident

The pilot executed a forced landing, during which the aircraft contacted trees. It subsequently settled to the terrain in an inverted position. A fire erupted after the impact.

Post-Accident Inspection

A post-accident inspection of the aircraft and engine was conducted. The examination did not reveal any failure or malfunction of the aircraft or engine that would have resulted in a loss of power.

Additional Circumstances

Just prior to the accident flight, the pilot had avoided taking off from another airport with the same passenger load due to weight concerns.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12348. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.